Animal Symbolism of the Goose

The animal symbolism of the goose hasn't got its full honor. Too often in myth and lore we see the goose representing silly attitudes or lazy dispositions.

On the contrary, the symbolism of the goose is quite inspiring.

When we consider the goose never leaves one of its own kind behind, we begin to see the goose in a different light. Just like the US Marines, "Semper Fidelis" (always faithful) is the motto of the goose too.

Geese annually migrate to warmer climates during the winter. Should a goose become injured during this trek, another goose will leave the migrating flock to stay with its fallen comrade. The goose will stay with the injured until he has recovered or until its final breath. Nothing silly about that.

Indeed, this kind of valor puts the symbolism of the goose in a far different light. Here are some attributes of the goose:

• Communication
• Determination
• Fellowship
• Teamwork
• Confidence
• Protection
• Bravery
• Loyalty

Geese are incredibly gifted navigators and instinctively know the way across the long haul to warmer climates. They forge ahead with confidence and bravery.

Geese are also fiercely protective of their young - often presenting an impressive thrashing display to would-be predators. These scare tactics often work to protect goslings from attack.

Those who have the goose as their animal totem need not worry if they are silly or lazy. This is far from the truth. In actuality, those who are kind, loyal, and brave-hearted attract geese as their totem. Those with the goose totem are the clear communicators, true-blue defenders and compassionate keepers of the community.

Lessons we all can learn from our totem geese include:

• Remember your roots - don't forget the people who helped you along the way
• Follow your gut - rely on intuition and instinct in order to get where you need to be
• Communicate your needs to others - no one can help you if you don't speak out
• Protect that which is most valuable, but make sure you have your priorities straight (meaning, be sure you're protecting that which is worth protecting)

I hope I've put a more accurate spin on the animal symbolism of the goose with this post. Perhaps the US Marines will consider replacing their bulldog with the goose as their mascot (or not :-).

Back to Air Animal Totems List

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